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Humid rainforest and forest edges, often near water. habitat
Brazilian Rainbow Boa
Reptile Fact Sheet

Brazilian Rainbow Boa

LC

Epicrates cenchria

Humid rainforest and forest edges, often near water.

Fact Sheet

About this animal

Key facts about the brazilian rainbow boa.

Common Name
Brazilian Rainbow Boa
Scientific Name
Epicrates cenchria
Classification
Reptilia • Squamata • Boidae
Distribution
Amazon basin and surrounding lowlands of South America.
Habitat
Humid rainforest and forest edges, often near water.
Range map · red pin marks a typical locationView larger map
Diet
Carnivore: small mammals, birds and lizards.
Size
1.5–2 m (5–6.5 ft).
Lifespan
20–25 years.
Conservation Status
LC
Least Concern.
Behaviour
Nocturnal ambush hunter; excellent climber and swimmer.
Adaptations
Microscopic ridges on the scales split light like a prism, creating a rainbow shine. Heat-sensing pits find prey in the dark.
Predators
Larger snakes, big cats and birds of prey.
Interesting Facts
  • The 'rainbow' is not pigment — it's an optical effect called iridescence.
  • Gives birth to live babies, up to 30 in a single litter.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA) · Habitat: Amazon rainforest canopy — Wikimedia Commons